Patio Designs and Septic Systems

I live in Redmond, WA, in the great Seattle area. I always wanted to be a gardener. Last year we bought a house with just an acre. It is a Spanish looking ranch.

I am thinking about getting a landscape design plan, so we can implement it in few years. There is a problem in the back of the house. There is septic system in back of the master bedroom, and I would like to install a patio. I am not sure if is a good idea, and I don't know what to do.

I just want to know what is the general practice when this problem emerges?

Thank you.

Comments for Patio Designs and Septic Systems

Regarding septic systems, different municipalities have different zoning regulations. It depends where you live.

For example, in New Jersey they are very strict. There are definite setback requirements where you cannot do anything within a certain distance from the septic field. Often it is twenty feet or more. Under no circumstances can you alter the grade of the soil on top of the field or plant there.

In Virginia it is different. They are more lenient. There may be some setbacks for certain landscape elements, but you can fill on top of the field if you want to.

It would be best to check with the zoning and health departments where you live. Then you will know exactly what you can and cannot do. However, even if there are limitations, I am sure with a little creativity there are ways of designing a very nice landscape project.

"Susan, what a pleasure it was to work with you. You made me feel like I was your only client - responding late at night and always so quickly! Your design is amazing and we only hope we can do justice to it when we plant. You have such fantastic ideas and you are so open to suggestions and changes. Loved working with you - now if you could only come to Canada and plant it!!!"Helen, Ontario-Canada